Lock having integral status indicators
AssigneeThe Stanley Works
InventorSteven R. Snoke
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A key lock for use on a storage device, primarily a tool box, tool chest or workstation, having integral status indicators for giving a visual indication of whether the storage device is in a locked or unlocked condition. The key lock is preferably comprised of a core portion housing the internal workings of the lock mechanism and a shell portion, which surrounds at least a part of the core portion. At least one LED is secured in the shell portion. A face portion is attached to one end of the core portion, and is designed to receive a key. The other end of the core portion is adapted for attachment to other lock system components. The indicators on the key lock provide visual verification of the locked or unlocked status of the storage device, without the need to manually check each compartment.
Claims21
A key lock for use on a storage device, said key lock comprising:
- a core portion having a first end and a second end;
- a shell portion surrounding at least a segment of said core portion;
- a face portion attached to said first end of said core portion;
- a cover with a key opening affixed to said face portion;
- at least one LED secured within said lock for indicating the locked status of said storage device;
- and
- a sensing device for detecting whether said storage device is in a locked or unlocked condition, said sensing device in communication with said at least one LED,
- wherein said cover is adapted to allow at least a portion of the light from said at least one LED to pass through, thereby indicating the locked status of said storage device.
A method for indicating the status of a storage device, said method comprising the steps of:
- providing at least one LED in a key lock;
- providing said key lock in said storage device;
- providing a cover on said key lock, said cover having a structure to indicate whether said storage device is in a locked or unlocked condition;
- providing a power source for said at least one LED;
- providing a sensing device between said at least one LED and said power source, said sensing device adapted to detect the locked or unlocked condition of the storage device;
- sending an electrical signal to the at least one LED in response to the sensing device;
- and
- providing that the indicating structure on said cover is properly located over said at least one LED, so as to indicate whether said storage device is locked or unlocked;
- whereby, the locked or unlocked condition of said storage device may be ascertained by visual observation.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.